Ruben Amorim’s turbulent debut season at Manchester United just got a glimmer of recognition. The Portuguese boss has been shortlisted for March’s Premier League Manager of the Month award, his first nomination since replacing Erik ten Hag after steering the Red Devils to an unbeaten league run during the month.
The March Revival
March was hardly a blockbuster month for Premier League fixtures, but Amorim maximized limited opportunities. A gutsy 1-1 draw against title-chasing Arsenal saw Bruno Fernandes curl in a superb free-kick before Declan Rice’s equalizer. United then dominated Leicester City 3-0, their first away win by three goals since September.
Manchester United took four points from a possible six, extending their unbeaten run to four matches. While 13th place remains grim, these results hint at progress and Amorim’s nomination, a recognition of his methods.
The Competition: Nottingham’s Nuno Espirito & Brighton’s Hurzeler
Amorim faces stiff competition. Nottingham Forest’s Nuno Espirito Santo, former Wolves boss, pulled off a shock 1-0 win over Manchester City and crushed Ipswich 4-2 to keep Forest third. Brighton’s Fabian Hurzeler, meanwhile, held City to a 2-2 draw and edged Fulham 2-1.
But Amorim’s case is unique. Unlike his rivals, he’s reshaping a fractured squad mid-crisis. United’s win against Leicester was the first time they’d scored three times in an away match since September. While Nottingham Forest enjoys a phenomenal season under Nuno Espirito, United has a different story this season as they sit 13th in the league.
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Fernandes Nominated for POTM
No discussion of United’s March is complete without Bruno Fernandes. The captain notched two goals, including a free kick against Arsenal, and two assists, earning a Player of the Month nomination. His 50th Premier League assist at Leicester placed him alongside United legends, including Giggs, Beckham, and Cantona.
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Amorim’s domestic focus is blurred by United’s lively Europa League campaign. With a quarter-final against Lyon looming, the Portuguese know continental glory could salvage their season. But the Manager of the Month nomination, decided by fan votes and a panel, offers interim validation for Amorim’s methods. For United fans, it’s a rare reason to smile. As Fernandes thrives and results trickle in, maybe, just maybe, the storm is clearing.